Vaginal yeast infections (vulvovaginal candidiasis) is one of the commoner reasons for vaginal discharge and can occur frequently in many women. Yeast infections are due to a variety of causes including pregnancy, birth control, antibiotics, swimming, certain type of clothing and diabetics. In most instances no obvious cause is determined. It is not dangerous, but just inconvenient, irritating, and uncomfortable. It is not a sexually transmitted disease. The infection usually has an itching and or burning sensation associated with a discharge. The discharge can be white, yellow, or greenish yellow. It frequently has the appearance of cottage cheese.

The treatments available are quite simple and effective. Anti-yeast medication you should always be used with a cream. You should apply the cream to the lips of the vagina once or twice a day and insert the cream up inside the vagina. Drying the area after bathing and avoiding tight fitting air occlusive clothing are helpful to prevent yeast infections.

If after 24 to 48 hours no improvement occurs with these methods another problem may exist and a doctor should be consulted.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs, or infections STIs) are diseases passed on through intimate sexual contact. These infections can be passed on during vaginal, anal or oral sex as well as just through genital contact with an infected partner. The incidence of such infections is increasing with most of those affected being between the ages of 16 and 24 years.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the commonest STI and is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacteria. Most people who get this infection do not have any symptoms and many cases remain ‘silent’ and undiagnosed. It can be easily diagnosed through a simple vaginal swab or urine test. Undiagnosed Chlamydia can lead to more serious long term problems and infertility.

PID is an infection of the upper reproductive organs. It occurs when bacteria move upward from the vagina and cervix to the uterus, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. Most cases stem from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), generally gonorrhea and chlamydia. When the STD goes untreated, the bacteria that caused it can lead to PID. PID can cause serious long-term problems like infertility, ectopic pregnancy, and chronic pelvic pain. Although PID can threaten your health and cause infertility, it can be prevented and treated.

Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by a viral skin infection as a result of infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV). Small fleshy lumps are seen around the genital area. It is possible to pass on the infection without penetrative sex as HPV is spread by skin to skin contact. Genital warts are most common amongst young adults. Several treatments are available including, creams and cryotherapy (freezing).

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 or 2. It causes painful blisters to appear on and around the genitals. HSV is very infectious passes easily between people by direct contact. Genital herpes is transmitted from one person to another by having sex. It is possible for an individual with no symptoms to pass the condition onto a sexual partner. Once infected the virus stays dormant most of the time with 80% of people unaware they have been infected as there are no symptoms initially. Genital herpes is especially common amongst young people aged 20-24years.There is no cure for herpes but the symptoms can be relieved by antiviral medicines and with time the frequency and severity of attacks reduces.